CPT code 35661 refers to a type of surgery where blood flow is redirected around a blockage using an artificial tube to connect two major arteries in the thighs. CPT 35661 represents “Bypass graft, with other than vein; femoral-femoral.”
Procedure Explanation:
During this procedure, surgeons reroute blood flow in your legs by connecting one main artery to another using a synthetic graft instead of using a vein. This kind of surgery does not use a natural vein for the bypass and only includes the creation of the new pathway for blood flow. It doesn’t involve any repair or transplantation of veins.
Common Names:
- Fem-Fem Bypass
- Femoral Bypass Surgery
- Artificial Graft Bypass
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 20.35.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Femoral-femoral synthetic bypass
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Femoral artery bypass with artificial graft
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This surgery is commonly recommended for patients who have severe blockage in the arteries of their legs, leading to poor circulation. Such blockages might cause pain when walking or resting, or even lead to sores that don’t heal. People with conditions like peripheral artery disease often require this procedure.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I70.203: A serious condition where arteries in the legs are narrowed due to plaque buildup, causing pain and circulation issues.
- I73.9: A general term for a group of disorders affecting blood flow in the arteries, especially in the legs and feet.
- Z95.828: Used when someone has a synthetic graft in their body following a surgical procedure to improve blood flow.
Summary
In summary, code 35661 describes a surgical procedure to bypass blocked arteries in the legs using an artificial tube. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 35661 include I70.203 (plaque buildup in leg arteries) and I73.9 (disorders affecting blood flow).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.